The IELTS Speaking Test assesses various aspects of a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in English. Speaking Examiners look for fluency, coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range, accuracy, and pronunciation. Among the myriad topics, describing a person who excels at solving problems is a commonly recurring theme in the test. Questions pertaining to this topic can appear in all parts of the IELTS Speaking section.

II. Main Content

1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Common Questions:

• Do you like solving problems?
• Are you good at solving puzzles or riddles?
• Who is the person you turn to when you have a problem?

Example Question & Suggested Answer:

Question: Are you good at solving problems?

Suggested Answer: Yes, I consider myself quite adept at solving problems. Whether it’s a mathematical puzzle or a real-life issue, I tend to approach problems analytically and systematically. For instance, at work, I often find myself in situations where I need to troubleshoot technical issues, and I have successfully done so by breaking the problem down into smaller, manageable parts and tackling each one individually.

2. Part 2: Long Turn

Cue Card:

Describe A Person Who Is Good At Solving Problems.

You should say:

• Who this person is
• How you know him/her
• What kinds of problems he/she solves
• And explain why you think he/she is good at solving problems

Suggested Answer:

The person I admire most for his problem-solving abilities is John, my older brother. I have known John my entire life, and he has always been the go-to person in our family when anyone faces a dilemma. Whether it’s academic issues or everyday challenges, John always has a logical and practical approach to solving them.

For instance, John excels in troubleshooting technical glitches. Whenever our computer breaks down or our internet connection fails, John dives into diagnosing the issue, often figuring it out when technicians themselves are stumped. This stems from his profound understanding of technology and his calm demeanor which allows him to think clearly under pressure.

Troubleshooting Computer Problems

I believe John is exceptionally good at solving problems due to his keen analytical skills and persistent nature. He rarely gives up and always seeks multiple solutions before settling on the best one. This approach not only ensures effective problem resolution but also enhances his own knowledge in the process.

Possible Follow-up Questions:

• How do you think John developed his problem-solving skills?
  • Suggested Answer: I believe John developed his problem-solving skills through a combination of education and practical experience. His engineering background provided him with the theoretical knowledge, while his natural curiosity drove him to apply this knowledge practically.

3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Discussion Prompts:

Examiner: Do you think problem-solving skills are more important now than in the past?

Suggested Answer: Absolutely. In today’s fast-paced world, industries and technologies are constantly evolving, making problem-solving skills more crucial than ever. The ability to adapt quickly and find innovative solutions is essential for both personal and professional growth. For instance, in the tech industry, rapid advancements require individuals to continuously update their skills to solve new problems effectively.

Examiner: Can problem-solving skills be taught, or are they innate?

Suggested Answer: Both, I would say. While some people may have a natural knack for solving problems due to their cognitive abilities, problem-solving skills can definitely be cultivated through education and practice. Critical thinking exercises, real-life problem scenarios, and interdisciplinary learning can all enhance an individual’s ability to solve problems.

Vocabulary & Essential Phrases for High Scores

• Adept /əˈdept/ (adj.): Very skilled or proficient at something.
  • Example: She is adept at solving complex equations.
• Analytical /ˌænəˈlɪtɪkəl/ (adj.): Relating to or using analysis or logical reasoning.
  • Example: His success is due to his analytical approach to every problem.
• Persistent /pərˈsɪstənt/ (adj.): Continuing firmly or obstinately in an opinion or course of action despite difficulty or opposition.
  • Example: Persistent efforts in problem-solving often lead to success.
• Logical /ˈlɒdʒɪkəl/ (adj.): Of or according to the rules of logic or formal argument.
  • Example: A logical approach is crucial in analyzing problems.

III. Tips for Practicing to Achieve a High Score

1. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial. Engage in active speaking every day, which can be done through language exchange or speaking clubs.
2. Use Realistic Scenarios: Apply your learning to real-world situations. This makes your responses more relevant and relatable.
3. Seek Feedback: Practice with a mentor or join a speaking class where you can get constructive feedback on your performance.
4. Expand Vocabulary: Continuously build your lexicon, especially with words relevant to common IELTS themes.

In conclusion, by understanding the structure and expectations of the IELTS Speaking Test and using the provided examples and tips, you can enhance your problem-solving narratives and improve your chances of achieving a high band score.